Mental health problems

Explains the most commonly discussed mental health problems, including possible causes and how you can access treatment and support. Includes tips for helping yourself, and guidance for friends and family.

Al blogs for us about the importance of choice and having access to the right talking therapy to suit you.

Posted on 02/12/2013

What are mental health problems?

Mental health problems can affect the way you think, feel and behave. Some mental health problems are described using words that are in everyday use, for example ‘depression’ or ‘anxiety’. This can make them seem easier to understand, but can also mean people underestimate how serious they can be.

A mental health problem feels just as bad, or worse, than any other illness – only you cannot see it. Although mental health problems are very common – affecting around one in four people in Britain – there is still stigma and discrimination towards people with mental health problems, as well as many myths about what different diagnoses mean.

There are also a lot of different ideas about the way mental health problems are diagnosed, what causes them and which treatments are most effective.

However, despite these challenges, it is possible to recover from a mental health problem and live a productive and fulfilling life. It is important to remember that, if you have a mental health problem, it is not a sign of weakness.